OneDrive File Issues

Fix OneDrive Notifications Still Sent to Old Email Address

Maira Mehtab Sep 20, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user is receiving OneDrive automated alerts, such as large-file deletion notifications, at an old email address that was removed from their Microsoft account over 90 days ago.

Product: Microsoft OneDrive
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Trying to update the destination address for automated OneDrive email notifications after removing a legacy alias.
Observed behavior: Notifications continue being sent to the original sign-in email address, even though it has been deleted and is no longer listed as an active alias or account contact.

Before you start

Verify that you can successfully sign in to your Microsoft account using your newly established primary email address before modifying any advanced security options.

Solution 1Recommended

Verify Advanced Security Options and Account Aliases

Ensure the old email address is completely removed from all hidden areas of your Microsoft account, particularly the security and recovery sections.

Access Microsoft Account Info

Navigate to the Microsoft Account website and sign in with your current credentials. Click on the 'Your info' tab to verify that the old email is entirely absent from the Account info section.

Check Advanced Security Settings

Go to the 'Security' tab and select 'Advanced security options'. Look through the list of methods configured to verify your identity.

Remove Old Security Contacts

If the old email address is still listed as a recovery or security contact, click 'Remove' next to it and ensure your new email or phone number is actively verified.

Solution 2

Contact Microsoft Support for Legacy Sync Issues

Since the standard 90-day processing period has passed, you may need a Microsoft support agent to manually synchronize your account data on the backend.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is OneDrive still sending notifications to an old email?

If the old email was your original Microsoft account creation address, backend system delays or legacy database structures can cause automated OneDrive alerts to default to it, even if you successfully removed it as an alias.

How long does it take for Microsoft alias changes to process?

Microsoft typically requires up to 90 days for alias removals and security info updates to fully synchronize across all their servers and associated services like OneDrive.

Where can I check my current Microsoft account email aliases?

You can view and manage your current email aliases by signing into your Microsoft Account online, navigating to the 'Your info' tab, and checking the 'Account info' or 'Sign-in preferences' section.

Document & File Issues